Opportunities From: Hamilton County (IN)

Volunteer: CERT Application - 2026

Note - Please respond to only one Application. If you have already responded to the opportunity for EOC Volunteers Application or Comms Group Application, and are interested in responding to this opportunity, too, please contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov. We'd love to have you join us through multiple programs, and welcome you to be involved in any area where you feel motivated to serve.


Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) volunteer programs are designed to be long-term opportunities to help further HCEM's mission to provide support to plan, prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover from natural, human-caused, and accidental hazards.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is an all-volunteer program that trains to be the Help Until Help Arrives in their area. They train in disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and learn basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members are also encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

Upon completion of the Basic Course, CERT members are asked to attend monthly meetings and regular training to further their preparedness knowledge.


We have three Basic Courses scheduled for 2026. You can choose the class that works best for your schedule. Each session meets on Friday 7p-9:30p, Saturday 9a-5p, Sunday 9a-5p, and Monday 7p-9:30p.

January 30 - February 2April 24 - 27September 11 - 14

All volunteer candidates must be 18 years or older and complete this volunteer application, background check, and training requirements. Once your application is reviewed, a team member will be in contact with you to schedule an interview.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov or Bryan.Kercheval@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.

Program: Emergency Management

Note - Please respond to only one Application. If you have already responded to the opportunity for EOC Volunteers Application or Comms Group Application, and are interested in responding to this opportunity, too, please contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov. We'd love to have you join us through multiple programs, and welcome you to be involved in any area where you feel motivated to serve.


Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) volunteer programs are designed to be long-term opportunities to help further HCEM's mission to provide support to plan, prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover from natural, human-caused, and accidental hazards.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is an all-volunteer program that trains to be the Help Until Help Arrives in their area. They train in disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and learn basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members are also encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

Upon completion of the Basic Course, CERT members are asked to attend monthly meetings and regular training to further their preparedness knowledge.


We have three Basic Courses scheduled for 2026. You can choose the class that works best for your schedule. Each session meets on Friday 7p-9:30p, Saturday 9a-5p, Sunday 9a-5p, and Monday 7p-9:30p.

January 30 - February 2April 24 - 27September 11 - 14

All volunteer candidates must be 18 years or older and complete this volunteer application, background check, and training requirements. Once your application is reviewed, a team member will be in contact with you to schedule an interview.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov or Bryan.Kercheval@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Jan 30, 2026 through Jan 1, 2027

Zip Code: 46060

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Comms Group Application - 2026

Note - Please respond to only one Application. If you have already responded to the opportunity for CERT Application or EOC Volunteers Application, and are interested in responding to this opportunity, too, please contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov. We'd love to have you join us through multiple programs, and welcome you to be involved in any area where you feel motivated to serve.


Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) volunteer programs are designed to be long-term opportunities to help further HCEM's mission to provide support to plan, prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover from natural, human-caused, and accidental hazards.

The Communications Group consists of a well-trained group of experienced communicators, technicians, engineers, and specialists in all facets of deployable equipment, enabling rapid response anywhere in the county and wherever needed in the state for mutual aid. In the face of emergencies, swift and reliable communication is paramount. We understand that when disaster strikes, traditional communication methods might falter.

While the Communications Group’s core focus is amateur radio, our expertise extends well beyond that. We have members skilled in FRS, GMRS, telecommunications, satellite systems, IT infrastructure, and more. In today’s interconnected world, emergency communications are no longer limited to amateur radio alone. To ensure resilience and adaptability during crises, we actively encourage our volunteers to explore and develop alternative communication methods. By diversifying our capabilities, we can build a stronger, more reliable network that stands ready to meet the challenges of modern emergency response.

After joining the Comms Group, volunteers are asked to attend monthly meetings and participate in special events and outreach throughout the year.

All volunteer candidates must be 18 years or older and complete this volunteer application, background check, and training requirements. Once your application is reviewed, a team member will be in contact with you to schedule an interview.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov or Joe.March@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.


Program: Emergency Management

Note - Please respond to only one Application. If you have already responded to the opportunity for CERT Application or EOC Volunteers Application, and are interested in responding to this opportunity, too, please contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov. We'd love to have you join us through multiple programs, and welcome you to be involved in any area where you feel motivated to serve.


Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) volunteer programs are designed to be long-term opportunities to help further HCEM's mission to provide support to plan, prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover from natural, human-caused, and accidental hazards.

The Communications Group consists of a well-trained group of experienced communicators, technicians, engineers, and specialists in all facets of deployable equipment, enabling rapid response anywhere in the county and wherever needed in the state for mutual aid. In the face of emergencies, swift and reliable communication is paramount. We understand that when disaster strikes, traditional communication methods might falter.

While the Communications Group’s core focus is amateur radio, our expertise extends well beyond that. We have members skilled in FRS, GMRS, telecommunications, satellite systems, IT infrastructure, and more. In today’s interconnected world, emergency communications are no longer limited to amateur radio alone. To ensure resilience and adaptability during crises, we actively encourage our volunteers to explore and develop alternative communication methods. By diversifying our capabilities, we can build a stronger, more reliable network that stands ready to meet the challenges of modern emergency response.

After joining the Comms Group, volunteers are asked to attend monthly meetings and participate in special events and outreach throughout the year.

All volunteer candidates must be 18 years or older and complete this volunteer application, background check, and training requirements. Once your application is reviewed, a team member will be in contact with you to schedule an interview.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Monica.Peterson@HamiltonCounty.in.gov or Joe.March@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.


Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Jan 1, 2026 through Jan 1, 2027

Zip Code: 46060

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: WARN Water Safety 2026

Water can be so relaxing and enjoyable, but it can also be quite dangerous. Let's learn how to stay safe!

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Water can be so relaxing and enjoyable, but it can also be quite dangerous. Let's learn how to stay safe!

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jun 17, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Poison Prevention 2026

The days of Mr. Yuck are long gone, but the dangers still persist. Learn how to protect yourself and your family against poisoning.  

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

The days of Mr. Yuck are long gone, but the dangers still persist. Learn how to protect yourself and your family against poisoning.  

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Aug 5, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Health Misinformation 2026

We've all heard rumors about health issues, but what is true? Let's find out!

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_NDQ1M2M5MzEtYjlkNy00YjdlLTlmZjgtMGQzYmVmMjRlYzNk@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

We've all heard rumors about health issues, but what is true? Let's find out!

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_NDQ1M2M5MzEtYjlkNy00YjdlLTlmZjgtMGQzYmVmMjRlYzNk@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Aug 19, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Physical Activity/ Nutrition/Hydration 2026

Staying physically active, eating well, and staying hydrated are important parts of staying healthy. Join us as Jim helps us stay on track for our own well-being.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Staying physically active, eating well, and staying hydrated are important parts of staying healthy. Join us as Jim helps us stay on track for our own well-being.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 2, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Amateur Radio Technician License Course

The Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) Communications Group (Comms Group) is seeking individuals interested in volunteering to support emergency communications during incidents, severe weather events, and planned operations.  

Reliable communication is a critical component of emergency response. The HCEM Communications Group provides auxiliary and backup radio communications when traditional systems are unavailable, overloaded, or require additional support.  

Overview

As part of the onboarding process, selected participants will take part in a structured 10-week training program. This program includes preparation for the FCC Technician Class Amateur Radio license, along with instruction on the use of communications within HCEM operations.  

The course follows the ARRL Technician curriculum to ensure participants are prepared for the licensing exam, while also incorporating HCEM-specific context, expectations, and real-world applications.   

This program is intended for individuals who are interested in actively participating in Hamilton County Emergency Management Communications.  

Program Details

Duration: 10 weeks Schedule: Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 PM Start Date: September 8 End Date: November 10 Location: Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office on Cumberland Road Exam: FCC Technician Class license exam administered at the conclusion  

Participants in this program are expected to:

Obtain the ARRL Technician License Manual, 6th edition, prior to the start of the course. Please ensure you have the correct version that covers the question pool from 2026 to 2030. Books will be available online from ARRL, Amazon, and other sources on June 1.Complete FEMA ICS 100, ICS 200, and ICS 700 online courses prior to or during the program Actively participate in class sessions and discussions Have a genuine interest in supporting HCEM communications Complete an HCEM volunteer application Successfully pass a background checkParticipate in an interview with Comms Group LeadershipParticipate in HCEM communications activities, including nets, trainings, and activations as available Follow HCEM policies, procedures, and operational guidelines Be at least 18 years old  

Program Structure:

The course will follow the ARRL Technician manual structure, with instruction delivered weekly and reinforced through discussion and practice questions. HCEM applications will be incorporated throughout to connect material to real-world use.

Weekly Schedule:  

Week 1 — September 8 in HHW Classroom

Orientation and HCEM Overview Introduction to HCEM Role of the Communications Group How amateur radio is used during incidents and activations HCEM volunteer expectations and pathway, including application and background check Program structure and participation requirements Overview of the FCC Technician license Required materials and recommended study tools  

Week 2 — September 15 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 1: Introduction to Amateur Radio Basic concepts of amateur radio Licensing structure and privileges Frequency bands overview  

Week 3 — September 22 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 2: Radio and Signals FundamentalsFrequency, wavelength, and modulation Signal behavior and propagation basics  

Week 4 — September 29 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 3: Electricity, Components, and Circuits Part 1 Voltage, current, resistance Basic electrical principles  

Week 5 — October 6 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 3 Part 2 and Chapter 4 Introduction Continued circuit concepts Introduction to practical electronics  

Week 6 — October 13 in HHW Classroom

ARRL Chapter 4: Practical Electronics and Equipment Radio equipment basics Power sources and connectors Basic troubleshooting concepts  

Week 7 — October 20 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 5: Antennas and Feedlines Antenna types and performance Feedlines and SWR fundamentals Practical considerations for field deployment  

Week 8 — October 27 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 6: Operating Procedures Proper radio operation Net structure and participation Phonetics and communication clarity Introduction to directed nets and message handling  

Week 9 — November 3 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 7: Rules and Regulations FCC rules and responsibilities Licensing requirements and privileges Operating within regulations  

Week 10 — November 10 in HHW Classroom

Final Review and Exam Session Review of key concepts Question and answer session Administration of the FCC Technician Class exam Next steps for HCEM involvement

Program Outcome

At the conclusion of the program, participants will: Be prepared to pass the FCC Technician Class license exam Understand the fundamentals of amateur radio operation Have awareness of how communications support HCEM operations Be positioned to participate in Hamilton County Emergency Management Communications activities


For more information, please contact Joe.March@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.



Program: Emergency Management

The Hamilton County Emergency Management (HCEM) Communications Group (Comms Group) is seeking individuals interested in volunteering to support emergency communications during incidents, severe weather events, and planned operations.  

Reliable communication is a critical component of emergency response. The HCEM Communications Group provides auxiliary and backup radio communications when traditional systems are unavailable, overloaded, or require additional support.  

Overview

As part of the onboarding process, selected participants will take part in a structured 10-week training program. This program includes preparation for the FCC Technician Class Amateur Radio license, along with instruction on the use of communications within HCEM operations.  

The course follows the ARRL Technician curriculum to ensure participants are prepared for the licensing exam, while also incorporating HCEM-specific context, expectations, and real-world applications.   

This program is intended for individuals who are interested in actively participating in Hamilton County Emergency Management Communications.  

Program Details

Duration: 10 weeks Schedule: Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 PM Start Date: September 8 End Date: November 10 Location: Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office on Cumberland Road Exam: FCC Technician Class license exam administered at the conclusion  

Participants in this program are expected to:

Obtain the ARRL Technician License Manual, 6th edition, prior to the start of the course. Please ensure you have the correct version that covers the question pool from 2026 to 2030. Books will be available online from ARRL, Amazon, and other sources on June 1.Complete FEMA ICS 100, ICS 200, and ICS 700 online courses prior to or during the program Actively participate in class sessions and discussions Have a genuine interest in supporting HCEM communications Complete an HCEM volunteer application Successfully pass a background checkParticipate in an interview with Comms Group LeadershipParticipate in HCEM communications activities, including nets, trainings, and activations as available Follow HCEM policies, procedures, and operational guidelines Be at least 18 years old  

Program Structure:

The course will follow the ARRL Technician manual structure, with instruction delivered weekly and reinforced through discussion and practice questions. HCEM applications will be incorporated throughout to connect material to real-world use.

Weekly Schedule:  

Week 1 — September 8 in HHW Classroom

Orientation and HCEM Overview Introduction to HCEM Role of the Communications Group How amateur radio is used during incidents and activations HCEM volunteer expectations and pathway, including application and background check Program structure and participation requirements Overview of the FCC Technician license Required materials and recommended study tools  

Week 2 — September 15 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 1: Introduction to Amateur Radio Basic concepts of amateur radio Licensing structure and privileges Frequency bands overview  

Week 3 — September 22 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 2: Radio and Signals FundamentalsFrequency, wavelength, and modulation Signal behavior and propagation basics  

Week 4 — September 29 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 3: Electricity, Components, and Circuits Part 1 Voltage, current, resistance Basic electrical principles  

Week 5 — October 6 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 3 Part 2 and Chapter 4 Introduction Continued circuit concepts Introduction to practical electronics  

Week 6 — October 13 in HHW Classroom

ARRL Chapter 4: Practical Electronics and Equipment Radio equipment basics Power sources and connectors Basic troubleshooting concepts  

Week 7 — October 20 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 5: Antennas and Feedlines Antenna types and performance Feedlines and SWR fundamentals Practical considerations for field deployment  

Week 8 — October 27 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 6: Operating Procedures Proper radio operation Net structure and participation Phonetics and communication clarity Introduction to directed nets and message handling  

Week 9 — November 3 in Training Room 1

ARRL Chapter 7: Rules and Regulations FCC rules and responsibilities Licensing requirements and privileges Operating within regulations  

Week 10 — November 10 in HHW Classroom

Final Review and Exam Session Review of key concepts Question and answer session Administration of the FCC Technician Class exam Next steps for HCEM involvement

Program Outcome

At the conclusion of the program, participants will: Be prepared to pass the FCC Technician Class license exam Understand the fundamentals of amateur radio operation Have awareness of how communications support HCEM operations Be positioned to participate in Hamilton County Emergency Management Communications activities


For more information, please contact Joe.March@HamiltonCounty.in.gov.



Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 46060

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Parenting in the Cyber World 2026

Have you ever thought about how much the world has changed since you were in school? The number of things that kids deal with today is unimaginable. Let's learn from Jim some of the things that we can do to help our kids and grandkids stay safe in the Cyber World.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Have you ever thought about how much the world has changed since you were in school? The number of things that kids deal with today is unimaginable. Let's learn from Jim some of the things that we can do to help our kids and grandkids stay safe in the Cyber World.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

Teams meeting link

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 7, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: QPR Suicide Prevention 2026

If you feel someone is at risk for suicide, knowing what to do can save lives.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_YjRlZDY0NTktMTgwZS00NDBiLTliZmEtYTMzYzZkY2RkZDcy@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

If you feel someone is at risk for suicide, knowing what to do can save lives.

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_YjRlZDY0NTktMTgwZS00NDBiLTliZmEtYTMzYzZkY2RkZDcy@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 18, 2026

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Food Safety 2026

We've all been at buffets and seen food that looks like it's been there a while. What if we're in an incident and people are bringing in food? Who's keeping track of where it came from and how long it's been there?

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_Njk2MjRmZWEtMmJlZC00ZDViLWFlOWMtM2UyNTBiNzlhODli@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

We've all been at buffets and seen food that looks like it's been there a while. What if we're in an incident and people are bringing in food? Who's keeping track of where it came from and how long it's been there?

This training will be offered online via a Teams Meeting. Please join us from the comfort of your home as Jim Ginder shares important information with us.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_Njk2MjRmZWEtMmJlZC00ZDViLWFlOWMtM2UyNTBiNzlhODli@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"66db0e9b-cfb9-4584-a4cb-dce4f443be45","Oid":"4a7672ce-d744-4fca-a9ab-8f08ffb3d754"}

Program: Emergency Management

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Dec 2, 2026

Allow Groups: No